Uganda and NBA Africa are exploring ways to expand basketball development among young people, with discussions focusing on the possible creation of a Junior NBA League in the country.
The initiative was discussed during a meeting in Kigali between Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and NBA Africa Chief Executive Officer Claire Akamanzi, held during Muhoozi’s two-day working visit to Rwanda.
The talks built on earlier discussions held in Uganda in March, where officials considered a partnership between NBA Africa and Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports to establish a youth basketball programme aimed at developing talent while promoting values such as teamwork, leadership and discipline.
NBA Africa has been expanding its partnerships with governments and private-sector organisations across the continent as it seeks to grow basketball participation, improve sports infrastructure and create opportunities linked to technology, entertainment and youth development.
Uganda has already made progress in the sport, with clubs including City Oilers and Namuwongo Blazers competing in the Basketball Africa League (BAL), a professional competition supported by NBA Africa.
Basketball’s reach in Uganda is also expected to increase after broadcasters Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) and NBS announced plans to begin showing NBA games in the country from September 2026, giving fans wider access to international competition.
The engagement between Muhoozi and Akamanzi came during a wider visit by the Ugandan military chief to Rwanda, where he also held talks with President Paul Kagame and other senior officials.
Muhoozi’s visit included tours of several Kigali facilities, including Nyandungu Eco-Park and roads designated for sports activities.
The discussions reflect the growing role of sports partnerships in East Africa, where governments and private organisations are increasingly using athletics as a tool for youth development, talent promotion and regional cooperation.
